The presidential office at La Moneda has appointed three new advisors—Julián Sánchez, Vartan Ishanoglu, and Pamela Arellano—to the Second Floor team led by chief of advisors Alejandro Irarrázaval. These appointments follow a significant restructuring of the unit overseen by Álvaro Bellolio, which included the recent departures of four high-profile staff members and the reassignment of former Subsecretary of the Interior Andrés Jouannet to the office.
New appointments and team realignment
The three new advisors are tasked with acting as liaisons between the government cabinet and the Palace, focusing on monitoring departmental commitments and priorities. According to executive sources, Julián Sánchez was proposed directly by President José Antonio Kast, having previously collaborated with the Republican Party and the President’s 2017 campaign. Vartan Ishanoglu brings experience from the National Migration Service and a prior role on the team of former presidential candidate Evelyn Matthei.
The recent influx of staff follows a major shake-up within the unit led by Álvaro Bellolio. Shortly before the Cuenta Pública, Bellolio removed three key advisors: Martín Baudet, retired Rear Admiral Roberto Machiavello, and epidemiologist Solana Terrazas.
Staffing shifts and internal consequences
The turnover at the Second Floor has been substantial. The departures included Martín Baudet, whose exit was attributed to internal differences with Bellolio; Solana Terrazas, who reportedly faced complaints from the Ministry of Health; and Roberto Machiavello, whose reason for departure was not detailed by the Palace. Additionally, former senator Luz Ebensperger left the team following her appointment by President Kast as Chile’s ambassador to Uruguay.
The consolidation of this unit suggests a move toward tighter centralized control over cabinet priorities. By replacing previous staff with figures like Sánchez, who has direct ties to the President, and reassigning personnel like Jouannet, the administration appears to be prioritizing ideological alignment and direct reporting lines to the Palace.
What to expect next
Observers may anticipate a period of operational adjustment as the new team members settle into their liaison roles. Because the unit is responsible for tracking ministerial commitments, the success of this new group will likely be measured by their ability to harmonize the cabinet’s agenda with the priorities set by the Presidency. Further shifts in internal communication styles between the ministries and the Palace are a possible next step following the recent personnel changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the new advisors at La Moneda?
The new advisors are Julián Sánchez, Vartan Ishanoglu, and Pamela Arellano, all of whom report to the team led by Álvaro Bellolio.
Why were previous members of the advisory team removed?
Reasons varied: Martín Baudet left due to differences with Bellolio, Solana Terrazas faced complaints from the Ministry of Health, and Luz Ebensperger transitioned to a diplomatic role as ambassador to Uruguay.
What is the primary function of the new advisory team?
The new advisors act as “enlaces” (liaisons) for the Palace, responsible for monitoring the progress of various cabinet portfolios and the government’s stated priorities.
How do you believe these changes will impact the government’s ability to coordinate its legislative agenda?
